Properties of Water

Front

What property of water allows it to act as a temperature regulator for the world?

Back

High Specific Heat

Front

Why do large bodies of water, such as lakes and oceans, not quickly fluctuate in temperature?

Back

Water has a high heat capacity.

Front

What does it mean when we say water has an unusually high specific heat?

Back

A large amount of heat is required to raise the temperature of water.

Front

Which end of the water molecule has a slightly positive charge?

Back

The hydrogen end.

Front

What term describes the attraction of water to other substances?

Back

Adhesion.

Front

What is the term for the property of water that allows it to stick to itself?

Back

Cohesion.

Front

How does water's high specific heat benefit aquatic ecosystems?

Back

It helps maintain stable temperatures in aquatic environments.

Front

What is the significance of water's polarity in biological systems?

Back

It allows water to dissolve many substances, making it a universal solvent.

Front

What is the effect of water's high heat of vaporization on climate?

Back

It moderates temperatures by absorbing heat when evaporating and releasing heat when condensing.

Front

How does the density of water change as it freezes?

Back

Ice is less dense than liquid water, allowing it to float.